This Air fryer Grilled Ham and Cheese is a fresh twist on a classic sandwich. The air fryer takes this sandwich to the next level by creating a warm, melty, and crisp exterior that perfectly balances out the juicy and tangy flavors inside.
2slicesBreadI used wheat multigrain bread. Or sourdough bread.
2slicestomatoApprox 1/8 inch ( 4-5 mm thick).
2TbspMayoOr butter.
1SliceHamUse 1-2 slices of ham. Favorite deli ham or leftover cooked ham is perfect.
2slicesCheeseUse any cheese of your choice - Cheddar, Swiss, Provolone
1/2tspSeasoningI used Italian seasonin
Instructions
Preheat the air fryer to 375°F (190°C)Spread mayonnaise (or butter) on one side of each slice of bread.Layer one slice of cheese on each unbuttered side. I used two types of cheese - Provolone and Sharp cheddar. Then place a slice of ham and tomato slices on top of the cheese. And close the sandwich. Secure with toothpicks if needed.
Place the sandwich in the air fryer basket or tray. Sprinkle the buttered side with Italian seasoning. Or seasoning of your choice. Cook for 5-7 minutes at 375°F, or until the cheese is melted and the bread is crispy. Be sure to flip the sandwich halfway on the other side.
Remove the sandwich from the air fryer. Let it cool for a a minute before cutting, as this will prevent the cheese from oozing out and making a mess. When ready to cut, use a sharp knife to slice through the center of the sandwich, applying gentle pressure to avoid squishing the filling. For an added touch of presentation, angle the knife slightly to create a diagonal cut. Enjoy! The combination of savory ham, sweet roasted tomato, and melted cheese will have your taste buds dancing with joy.
Notes
Tips and variationsWhat bread to use? While you might be tempted to reach for regular white bread, it's not always the best choice for this particular dish. Instead, opt for a heartier bread like sourdough or whole wheat that can hold up to the moisture from the ham and cheese without getting soggy or falling apart. These breads also offer a delicious, nutty flavor that complements the savory ham and oozy cheese to create the perfect sandwich.Flip the sandwich halfway in the Air fryer. While many people know to flip their grilled cheese sandwich over in the pan, it's just as important to do so in the air fryer as well. By turning it over, you allow for even cooking on both sides, ensuring that each bite is just as delicious as the last. Plus, it helps to create that signature crunchy exterior that we all crave.Add other ingredients like Roasted peppers & mushrooms, Air fryer onions, or avocado for extra flavor and nutrition.Add some spice with jalapeños or create a sweet and savory fusion with sliced apples and honey mustard.Experiment with different types of cheese such as brie, pepper jack, or blue cheese to create your unique flavor combinations.